McGill University’s innovative virtual coaching program, BRIGHT Coaching, aims to assist parents of preschoolers suspected of having developmental delays. This program offers personalized support from trained coaches to help parents navigate assessments, appointments, and decisions related to concerns such as speech and language delays, autism, and cerebral palsy. Additionally, it provides valuable information to promote healthy child development and family resilience.
Lead author Annette Majnemer, a Professor Emerita at McGill’s School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, highlighted the importance of empowering parents by helping them prepare questions, understand available therapies, and navigate the healthcare system effectively.
A clinical trial involving over 300 parents of preschool-aged children across various Canadian provinces showed that participants in the 14-session BRIGHT Coaching program reported feeling more confident and informed while waiting for services. Over 93% of parents noted that the program significantly supported their child’s needs.
This program was developed as part of the CHILD-BRIGHT Network, a nationwide initiative based at McGill University’s Research Institute.
